Alex Dunne and Alpine F1 have confirmed the 20-year-old Irishman will join the Alpine Academy for the 2026 season
Dunne was a part of the McLaren Driver Development program from 2024 until October 2025.
The Irishman took part in two Free Practice session for the McLaren team in Austria and Italy. Where he caught people’s attention when he posted the fourth fastest time in Austria.
After parting ways with McLaren in October of last year, there was uncertainty surrounding fans of Dunne, as many wanted to see him on the grid for the 2026 Formula 2 season.
After Rodin confirmed he would be taking part in the F2 2026 season, fans started speculating what team he had signed for.
Dunne had a very impressive rookie season in 2025, winning two races and eight podiums overall. He finished fifth overall in the standings.
Now signed for Alpine, Dunne will change his Rodin Cars livery to the Alpine livery for the upcoming race this weekend in Australia.
Speaking to F1, Dunne said: “I am very grateful for the trust the team has in me to represent the team and the brand on the global stage in FIA Formula 2.
“Naturally, after a competitive season in 2025, the goal this year is to fight for the Drivers’ Championship.”
Speaking to F1, Flavio Briatore, Alpine Executive Advisor, said: “We have a talented pool of drivers in Formula 2 with Gabriele Mini and Kush Maini.
“We look forward to watching the three of them compete in FIA Formula 2 in 2026, where the goal is very clear: to win the Drivers’ Championship.
His (Alex’s) performances in FIA Formula 2 and also his Free Practice sessions in Formula 1 last year were impressive, and he is clearly a very talented young driver with pure, natural speed.
Will we see Alex Dunne in an F1 car anytime soon? Or will the Alpine reserve drivers curse hit him?
(Featured image by Victoria Dutton)
Motor Sport Central 
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